Cheshire Constabulary are one of five ‘outstanding’ police forces for efficiency in the country.
The result was published by Her Majesty′s Inspector of Constabulary on October 20.
Their report concluded Cheshire is ‘exceptionally well prepared to face its future financial challenges’.
Chief Constable Simon Byrne said: “This is great news for Cheshire Constabulary and recognises the hard work of every officer and member of staff.
“This is a first for the force and something we should all feel very proud of.”
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The criteria grades across three areas, focusing on how efficient and sustainable the force model is.
Cheshire were rated ‘outstanding’ in two categories and overall, with a ‘good’ grading in the third area.
Budget cuts of £7.8m were enforced on the constabulary earlier this year.
Chief Constable Byrne said: “In a period of sustained budget reductions, it’s important for every police force to make efficiencies while focusing on reducing crime and keeping communities safe.
“What matters to the people of Cheshire is the number of police officers on the streets.
“As a result, 130 extra police officers are being re-directed back to the front line and 53 more are being recruited.”
The inspection took place in May this year.
Crime rates in Cheshire are also to their lowest point in 25 years.
Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner John Dwyer said: “We are bucking the trend.
“Enhancing frontline policing was my first commitment to the people of Cheshire when I was elected.
“Every pound has been scrutinised to establish how we could work differently, where we could make savings and how we could become more efficient.”
The review stated Cheshire Police have a strong track record for achieving savings.
Weaver Vale MP Graham Evans also praised the constabulary’s efforts.
He said: “It’s good news for all my constituents and people across Cheshire knowing that they have such a fantastic team ensuring the county is kept safe.”
Lancashire, Durham, Norfolk and West Midlands were the other forces to achieve the top grade.
Full details of the inspection can be seen on the HMIC website.
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